Victor Osimhen makes huge transfer decision after Saudi Arabia claim

  • Victor Osimhen expected to leave Napoli permanently this summer
  • Nigerian striker has been prolific on loan at Galatasaray
  • 26-year-old wants to return to top European league
Osimhen will be on the move
Osimhen will be on the move / Ahmad Mora/GettyImages
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Victor Osimhen wants a move to the Premier League or Juventus this summer following the conclusion of his Galatasaray loan spell, a report has revealed.

Osimhen joined the Turkish giants on a temporary basis last September after new manager Antonio Conte froze him out at Napoli and talks over a move to Chelsea broke down.

Facing a season on the sidelines, Turkiye's late summer transfer deadline offered Osimhen a get-out route which he gladly accepted, and the Nigerian hitman has been in tremendous form this season.

The striker has scored 28 goals in all competitions for the Super Lig leaders, with Gala poised to enjoy a trophy-laden campaign despite their early Europa League exit. Regarded as one of the very best forwards in world football, it's no surprise that Osimhen has been so productive in Turkiye. His stay in Istanbul is set to be brief, though.

ESPN report that Galatasaray have no agreement in place with Napoli to buy the Nigerian superstar permanently at the end of his loan spell, and Osimhen has made it clear that he wants to return to a leading European league. Juventus in Serie A and the Premier League have piqued his interest, with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal among the clubs previously linked.

All three clubs are in the striker market this summer, while Juve's situation is complicated following the exit of Thiago Motta. The futures of Dusan Vlahovic and loanee Randal Kolo Muani are up in the air.

Osimhen is on United's shortlist for the summer, but Ipswich Town's Liam Delap is said to be emerging as their striker priority. Chelsea have also shown interest in Delap after coming close to signing the Nigerian last summer, while Arsenal's new sporting director is eyeing a move for Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres.

The 26-year-old's release clause in his Napoli contract, which expires in 2026, has dropped to £62.7m, but his salary demands, believed to be £9m after tax, may deter potential suitors.

The Saudi Pro League is another potential destination, but Osimhen's preference in regards to his future club means a move to the Middle East currently seems unlikely.


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